Duddon Sands

Duddon Sands is a coastal marsh and saltings area located in Cumberland, England. It stretches along the Duddon Estuary, which is the border between Cumbria and Lancashire. This nature reserve is internationally recognized for its ecological importance and is protected under various conservation designations.

The marshes of Duddon Sands are characterized by their vast expanses of saltmarsh vegetation, which thrive in the intertidal zone where freshwater from the Duddon River meets the tidal waters of the Irish Sea. The area is home to a diverse range of plant species, including sea lavender, sea aster, and glasswort, which have adapted to survive in the saline environment.

The marshes provide a vital habitat for many bird species, particularly during the winter months when migrating birds seek refuge here. The reserve is an important feeding and roosting site for wading birds such as curlews, redshanks, and oystercatchers. It is also known to support a significant population of Brent geese, which travel here from Arctic breeding grounds.

In addition to its avian inhabitants, Duddon Sands is a haven for marine life. The intertidal mudflats provide a rich feeding ground for invertebrates, which attract wading birds and other wildlife. Common seals can often be spotted hauling themselves out onto the sandbanks at low tide.

Visitors to Duddon Sands can explore the reserve via a network of footpaths and bird hides, allowing for a closer observation of the diverse flora and fauna. The reserve offers a tranquil environment for nature enthusiasts and provides an opportunity to appreciate the unique beauty of this coastal marsh and saltings area.